Valentines Treats Strawberry Almond Tartlets

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Almond Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking, especially when it comes to creating sweet treats for special occasions. These strawberry almond tartlets have become a favorite of mine for Valentine's Day. The combination of buttery almond crust filled with luscious strawberry compote is a match made in dessert heaven! They’re not just delicious; they also look impressive, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you serve these tartlets, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:25:09.688Z

Making these strawberry almond tartlets was a delightful experience. I remember experimenting with the almond crust, trying to achieve that perfect balance between crumbly and buttery. After a few tries, I discovered that incorporating almond flour gave the crust a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

The best part about these tartlets is how versatile they are. I often switch up the fruit depending on the season. However, the fresh strawberries really shine here, especially when complemented with a hint of almond extract. It brings everything together in the most delightful way!

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        A delightful almond crust that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries create a burst of flavor
Perfect for romantic dinners or special celebrations

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for the strawberry filling in these tartlets. Fresh berries not only provide a vibrant flavor but also contribute to the texture of the compote. Freezing strawberries can alter their consistency, leading to a less satisfying filling. For the best results, choose plump, ripe strawberries that yield slightly when squeezed. They should have a bright red color and a sweet aroma, indicating they're perfectly ripe for baking.

In the case of almond flour, selecting a high-quality product will enhance your crust's flavor. Almond flour should be finely ground and smell fresh with no rancid notes. Its fat content adds richness and a nutty depth to the crust. If you need a gluten-free option, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly, making it less tender.

Techniques for Perfect Tartlet Assembly

When rolling out the almond crust, take care not to overwork the dough to ensure it remains tender. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch; too thick, and the crust may not cook through properly. Dust your work surface and rolling pin with a bit of almond flour to prevent sticking. Using tartlet pans with removable bottoms makes it easier to present your delicate treats beautifully.

To prevent the filling from leaking during baking, make sure to fill each crust just below the rim. The strawberry mixture will bubble slightly as it cooks, and a clean edge helps keep the tartlets looking pristine. Keep a close eye on the baking process; look for the crust to turn a light golden brown, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven.

Ingredients

For the almond crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk

For the strawberry filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the almond crust

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk until the dough forms.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the strawberry filling

In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract.

Assemble and bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the crust and line tartlet pans. Fill each crust with the strawberry mixture.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Tips

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also add a sprinkle of sliced almonds on top for added crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

These strawberry almond tartlets can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for busy occasions. You can prepare the crust up to a day ahead; simply wrap it well and keep it refrigerated. This not only saves time but allows the flavors of the almond flour to deepen, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember, if the dough is chilled for too long, leave it at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling out.

The strawberry filling can also be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just before filling the tartlet shells, give the mixture a stir. If it thickens too much in the refrigerator, gently heat it on the stove over low heat until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To make these strawberry almond tartlets even more delightful, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, buttery crust and the cold cream adds an extra layer of indulgence that elevates the dessert. For a beautiful presentation, you can garnish with additional sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers.

If you want to impress your guests even further, drizzle some chocolate sauce or a berry reduction over the top before serving. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds complementary flavors that balance the sweetness of the filling. Your guests will appreciate the attention to detail in both flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the filling.

→ How do I store leftover tartlets?

Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the crust in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the almond crust a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to use it.

→ What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can substitute almond flour with additional all-purpose flour, but the flavor will be slightly different.